Main description:

Accurate clinical observations are fundamental to competent and safe healthcare practice. The Biological Basis of Clinical Observations gives readers the understanding needed to perform clinical observations accurately, make accurate judgements about the patient's condition and make accurate decisions concerning patient care.

This useful textbook integrates clear explanations of the techniques involved in making clinical observations, alongside the biological knowledge which gives them meaning. For each topic, it explains the pathological basis for variations in observed results, focusing on relevant anatomy and physiology, genetics and pharmacology, and the basic principles of care. In addition to new chapters on blood tests and pregnancy, the text has been updated throughout. It now incorporates increased coverage of paediatrics, movement and the musculo-skeletal system, the lymphatic system, pregnancy, diabetes, homeostasis and infection, among other areas.

Topics discussed include:

temperature
cardiovascular observations
respiratory observations
urinary and bowel observations
neurological observations
nutrition
fluid balance
skin
drug side effects, interactions and allergies.

The Biological Basis of Clinical Observations is a unique text which integrates explanations of essential procedures with the biological knowledge that underpins practice. It is essential reading for all nursing and health students preparing for clinical practice.

Contents:

Chapter 1. Temperature

Chapter 2. Cardiovascular observations (I): the pulse and electrocardiogram (ECG)

Chapter 3. Cardiovascular observations (II): blood pressure

Chapter 4. Cardiovascular observations (III): Blood tests

Chapter 5. Respiratory observations

Chapter 6. Fluid Balance

Chapter 7. Nutrition

Chapter 8. Elimination (I): urinary observations

Chapter 9. Elimination (II): digestive observations

Chapter 10. Skin

Chapter 11. Neurological observations (I): consciousness

Chapter 12. Pain

Chapter 13. Neurological observations (II): eyes

Chapter 14. Neurological observations (IV): movement

Chapter 15. Drug side effects, interactions and allergies

Chapter 16. Physiological changes occurring in pregnancy